I habitually surround myself around people who have a passion for what they do. Their excitement for life is contagious and it gives me hope for a brighter future.

Being retired has offered me many blessings. I enjoy reflecting on the many opportunities I experienced that supported my positive thinking. I am grateful that the grandchildren have expressed how much they appreciate that quality of mine.

One of the grandchildren wrote in an assignment at school that I was very influential in his life. I asked him to tell me more precisely what was it in me that influenced him to select me. He said he observed that I always have a smile on my face and just naturally see the positive things in life.Needless to say I am humbled by that recognition.

As I open my toolbox to get ideas to write for my blog I'm amazed at all of the personal and spiritual growth experiences my wife and I have participated in during the 49 years of our marriage. We have consistently attended workshops and lectures on personal development, marriage enrichment, nutritional needs for optimum health and vitality, alternative solutions to healing and wellness.

For those serious about living the life of your dreams I would like to encourage you to connect with like-minded people, attend seminars, and read books that support your goals and dreams. The next step is critical. Unfortunately it is where I see so many people give up on their dreams. They research ideas and become aware of the necessary steps to create the life of their dreams but they do not follow through by taking action.It is one thing to read inspirational books or attend a seminar to experience a 24-hour high. Many people become addicted to experiences that get them excited and motivated but they do not implement the ideas and recommendations into their daily lives. Achieving the life of your dreams requires taking those tools that are realistic for your capabilities and resources and initiate your action plan. It may be just a small step initially but its forward movement. Remember to achieve a major shift it typically requires doing a 90-day commitment. Once you have accomplished that it becomes a way of life.

The one person that helped me the most in taking action was Dr. Wayne Dyer. I have all of his books in my library of inspirational writers. The one book by Dr. Dyer I took from my toolbox today is Excuses Begone! (How to change lifelong, self-defeating thinking habits.)

The following is a quote from this book. “Enthusiasm Overcomes Excuses

Passion is a feeling that tells you: this is the right thing to do. Nothing can stand in my way. It doesn't matter what anyone else says. This feeling is so good that it cannot be ignored. I'm going to follow my bliss and act upon this glorious sensation of joy.

Excuses, on the other hand, communicate the opposite message:I don't necessarily have to follow through-look at how dull all of this is anyway. This isn't very important; if it was, I'd be excited about it. I'll drop it for now; I can always do it later. This isn't for me; I'll just finish it quickly and get it over with.”

Today is a great day to start living out your life passions. Everyone will benefit. People want to surround themselves around people that are excited about life.I know that I do!

It is always great hearing from you in the comment section to learn what you are doing to support you in living the life of your dreams.